The only other quarterback on the roster is undrafted rookie Connor Shaw. The team's dogged pursuit of a veteran signal-caller indicates Hoyer might be sidelined for Cleveland's Week 17 finale against the Ravens.

Thigpen was with the team during the preseason and has familiarity with the Browns' offense. This marks Thigpen's fourth official stop in the NFL -- he's also played with the Chiefs, Bills and Dolphins.